The term “kanji” technically refers to Japanese writing, while the term “hanzi” refers to Chinese writing.

The Japanese originally had no writing system and borrowed from Chinese script to come up with their own.  As such, you will notice most characters are essentially the same in both systems, with some slight stylistic variations… and for the most part, have the same meanings (tho pronounced differently).  Matter of fact, the two characters below for “kanji” translate literally as “Chinese characters” and are the same for both Chinese and Japanese (as well as Korean hanja).

If you visit my store Building Characters, you’ll notice we use the term “kanji” generically throughout the site when referring to Chinese character writing…  partly for the reason stated above, but also because the term “kanji” is found in English dictionaries, while “hanzi” is not.  Additionally, more often than not, folks type “kanji” versus “hanzi” into search engines to get to our site…  and as a small company, we need to balance staying in business with what is technically correct.

Hopefully, we’ll be able to grow sufficiently enough, or the term “hanzi” will gain enough popularity, such that is won’t be a challenge down the road…  esp. with China’s rising economic presence, and the ‘08 Olympics coming up…  ‘nah mean?…  shazam!

Want to see these characters embroidered on a women’s or unisex t-shirt?  Or on a women’s or unisex tank top?  Click the appropriate preceding link.  Got a translation request of your own?  Contact me!